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Von der Leyen backed EU mandate for talks with Russia

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen is accusing Russia of conducting grey-zone campaigns and psychological warfare against Europe. She is planning a visit to Armenia to support a pro-EU government. The EU is also pursuing transport routes that avoid Russia and Iran.

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What changed

Von der Leyen has shifted focus toward countering Russian hybrid threats and securing non-Russian trade routes in the South Caucasus.

Live updates

  1. Von der Leyen targets Russian hybrid war amid Caucasus diplomacy

    European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen is accusing Russia of conducting grey-zone campaigns and psychological warfare against Europe. She is planning a visit to Armenia to support a pro-EU government. The EU is also pursuing transport routes that avoid Russia and Iran.

    What's confirmed:

    • Ursula von der Leyen is the President of the European Commission.
    • Von der Leyen has accused Russia of using drones to destabilize European democracies.
    • The EU is pushing for secure routes that bypass Russia and Iran.

    Still unconfirmed:

    • Von der Leyen plans to visit Armenia to show support for a pro-EU government.
    • Von der Leyen described multiple incidents as grey-zone campaigns against Europe.
    confidence 90%

  2. EU Leaders Divided Over Russia Communication Channels

    European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and Council President Antonio Costa are pushing for an EU mandate to negotiate with Russia. The goal is to ensure the bloc is not sidelined in peace talks. However, EU leaders remain split on establishing these contacts.

    What's confirmed:

    • Ursula von der Leyen supports an EU mandate for talks with Russia.
    • European Council President Antonio Costa has made a diplomatic overture to the Kremlin.
    • EU leaders are divided over establishing a back-channel with Moscow.

    Still unconfirmed:

    • The EU has reached out to Moscow in a tentative bid to open a line of communication.
    confidence 90%

  3. Von der Leyen Backs EU Mandate for Russia Talks

    European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen told EU leaders it is time to consider a mandate for negotiations with Russia regarding Ukraine. She and European Council President António Costa argue for opening diplomatic channels to ensure EU representation in future peace talks. The officials intend to work closely with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to establish a common bloc position.

    What's confirmed:

    • Ursula von der Leyen told EU leaders it is time to consider an EU mandate to negotiate with Russia on Ukraine.
    • Ursula von der Leyen and António Costa defended the need for the EU to start talking with Russia to ensure representation in possible peace negotiations.
    • Von der Leyen and Costa stated they will work closely with President Volodymyr Zelensky to prepare a common position for the bloc.

    Still unconfirmed:

    • António Costa's outreach to the Kremlin was described as controversial and backfired.
    • Draft conclusions from the June 18-19 summit suggest the EU should increase diplomatic efforts to end the war.
    • France, Germany, and the U.K. have put out their own feelers to Russian counterparts.
    confidence 90%